QESBA Statement on Bill 62

On October 18th 2017, Bill n° 62, An Act to foster adherence to State religious neutrality and, in particular, to provide a framework for requests for accommodations on religious grounds in certain bodies, passed into law.

The Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA) adheres to the principles of religious neutrality and accommodation for religious differences.

Based on the information we currently have, Bill 62 will not affect our existing policies and practices. All members of our education community – administrators, teachers, staff and students – should continue to carry out their functions and activities in the same manner as they did before the new Law.

Inclusion is a fundamental for the English-speaking community in Quebec. As public institutions in Quebec, we support the broadest possible access to education and to employment in our institutions.

The diversity of our community contributes to the richness of daily life in our institutions for both students and employees. We are collectively committed to promoting a climate of inclusiveness and tolerance that will allow all our students, teachers and staff to flourish in their pursuits.